Born to Shop!

One of the most important jobs of being an interior designer is having an eye for key pieces of furniture and knowing where to get them fast. Time is money!  Ask us to pick furniture selections within your budget?  We'd love to! Here are some of our favorite's for our current Lakeville client.

Wine Tasting Table

Capelle Side Table

Renee Chair

Impromptu Flip Top Table

Preston Sectional

A Remodeling Journey Part III

The Fourth Step:  Construction Documentation

After receiving approval of the design development phase, technical documents are produced that may include a set of drawings covering non-structural changes, lighting, and electrical plans, built-ins, and finishes.  Requests for proposals are submitted to contractors to complete the final budget for construction, followed by preparation of a construction schedule.

*We can't share our top secret design documents here - sorry, but here is a sneak peak at some of the finishes:

Solid Clear Maple 5' Wide Plank Floor
"Wenge" Finished Cabinetry
New Cambria Color "Buckingham"
Kohler Stainless Steel Fixtures
Stainless Steel Electrolux Appliances
Emperador Glass and Stone Random Tile
Indian River #985 and Alpaca #1074 - Benjamin Moore colors
Adjustable Mocha Glass and Brushed Steel Pendants

The Fifth Step:  Contract Administration
The project becomes reality now. We supervise construction in accordance with the construction documents and the proposed construction schedule... communication with contractors is crucial during this time. This phase encompasses the follow-through period, installation, and move-in. This is an exciting and stressful time as the client watches the transformation of the space(s).

Walls - Gone!  Old Cabinetry - Gone!

Kitchen wall extended!

Goodbye fireplace, but not for long...you will be transformed and have a new home soon.
Big beautiful windows will go here in its place!

Next Up:  The Finishing Touches
Don't miss out on the before and after  pictures!

A Remodeling Journey...Part ll

The Third Step: Design Development
Here we start to develop layouts of space and hone in on selections of materials. We produce a set of rough drawings for client review in which corrections or changes are directly sketched on the drawings as we fine-tune the design. Projects can stay in the design development phase for as short or as long as needed. The purpose is to assure all details are thoughtful and relate back to the initial concept.

Sharpie madness!

Furniture, fixtures and finish selections are beginning to take shape.

Planning for optimum use of the space.

Mulling over finishes.



Design inspiration...concepts for the kitchen.



Up Next:  Construction Documentation.

I know it sounds really boring...but just wait and see!



Anatomy of a remodel.

Come on a remodeling journey with us from concept...to completion. 

This Prior Lake family dreams of a kitchen update along with more space for their growing family.  The new plan will provide better views of their sprawling acreage throughout the main level, as as well as an office suite for the lady of the house.  All to be completed for their daughter's graduation party on July 30th!

The First Step: "The Programming Phase," is an information gathering time and is the most crucial step in the design process to create potential design solutions that work for you. We use the interview process to document how you will use the space(s), as well as any aesthetic preferences such as color and style. Measurements and photos are taken at this time.

Existing Ktichen

This fireplace is blocking our view... it MUST be moved!

Future site of an office suite fit for a queen!

The current home blueprint.

The Second Step:  Conceptual Design
This is the creative time in the design process. We propose meaning behind the design or design intent. We may use images to convey the concept, as well as preliminary renderings and materials. Based on client review, the design concepts are revised as needed to achieve the desired design goal.
                                                                   Oh - the possibilities...

      Here we're hammering out creative solutions with sketches and renderings to be mulled over with the homeowners.

Up Next:  Design Development...Stick with us!

Take me away...

 Even if you aren't escaping the winter to some faraway place of warm bliss, here are some of the latest exotic offerings to liven up and warm up your winter just when you need it the most.




Wood Lounge Chair - Koji Collection, Henna Ceiling Lamp - Casablanca Market, Peacock Fabric - GPJ Baker, Tropical Fabric - Kravet, Grass Shades, Spanish Vessel Sink and Accessories - Carla Bast Interior Design

 

Love is in the air!

On this bitterly cold Minnesota morning, we're going to add some warmth and romance to your bedroom.  Here's just a few pointers... just in time for Valentines Day! 

What's more romantic than walking through a flower garden or enjoying the outdoors? Bring the colors of the outdoors into your bedroom decor with live plants or flowers. Freshly cut flowers lend color and a soft, sweet scent throughout the room.
 
 

 
A romantic bedroom is inviting, comfortable, and a place you desire to relax following a long day. The bedding you choose is key to helping you relax. Choose luxurious silk sheets or wonderfully soft, high-quality cotton sheets for your bed. The comforter should be plush and soft while providing the focal point for the colors and patterns in your romantic bedroom.
 

 
 
Clean your bedroom - First of all, you need to clear all the clutter and junk from your bedroom so that positive energy can flow through the room easily. Clutter is known to block the flow of positive energy (known as “chi” in feng shui). Things like books, dirty clothes, and other miscellaneous junk items should all be removed. The area under the bed should also be cleaned and kept clutter- free. In addition, also remove things that remind you of your past or past relationships.If you have children, keep their stuff out of your space.

Lighting also plays a huge part in setting a romantic mood. Change lampshades to give color and light patterns, add a chandelier or recessed lighting with dimmers or put candle sconces on the wall.  Don't forget the candles!

Remove the television and the computer from the bedroom –  computers and television are literally energy suckers. They are known to affect the relationship and snatch away your partner’s attention.  Put them away...oh, and turn off the phone too!

Even at midnight the sun was still bright,

All because you kissed me goodnight!

~Author Unknown

Lower level update for a busy family.

BEFORE

BEFORE

Our Clients:  A busy family of 5 with kids ranging in age from 3 to 16. 
The Project:  Update the existing lower level space.
Requirements:  Space for watching TV with sound reducing features for the other areas of the home.  This space will need to provide seating for larger groups for entertaining as well. The kids will need floor space for those active games of knee hockey, trucks and Lego's as well as incorporate an area for scrap booking and board games.  Design a built in media center for a new flat screen TV with components, video games, movies and music.  Update the existing fireplace to create a sleek focal point, and integrate an attached toy room. 
Challenges:   Incorporating the existing traditional stained oak mill work, doors and windows into the design of a more transitional modern space.  The room is not large (370 sq. ft), yet it must accommodate varying ages with varying interests and function for various purposes.

We have selected 2 color palettes which our clients have fallen in love with.  They are having a hard time deciding on which one to choose, which do you prefer?

Option 1) Durable yet luxurious warm gray leather and fabrics for the large seating pieces, and splashes of vibrant color for throw pillows and accessories.  Paint Color:  Benjamin Moore "Revere Pewter." or a durable textural wallpaper.  Walls and window coverings will be soft and neutral  making it easier for focal artwork and furniture to stand out.

Option 2)  A bit more bold.  Black leather, soft charcoal, warm gray and the same vibrant shades of aqua and lime for a color splash!  Paint Color:  Benjamin Moore "Monroe Bisque."